Keyboard accessory for a portable electronic device

ABSTRACT

An accessory device for an electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a cover section and a keyboard section. The cover section may include a receiving surface that engages the electronic device. The cover section may include electrical contacts designed to electrically couple with contacts on the electronic device. The cover section may include several magnets designed to magnetically couple with magnets within the electronic device. The keyboard section may include a keyboard and one or more channels designed to receive and position the electronic device in a usable configuration with the keyboard. Several magnets may surround each channel, and may magnetically couple with magnets within (and along an edge of) the electronic device. The magnetic circuits formed between the channel magnets and the device magnets may counter, or offset, forces that otherwise remove the electronic device from the channel in an undesired manner.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/731,640, filed on Sep. 14, 2018, titled “KEYBOARDACCESSORY FOR A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The following description relates to accessory devices. In particular,the following description relates to accessory devices designed to carryan electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet device). Accessorydevices described herein may include both a cover and a keyboard.

BACKGROUND

Accessory devices are known to carry electronic devices. An accessorydevice may provide a protective outer cover for an electronic device.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, an accessory device for use with an electronic device isdescribed. The accessory device may include a cover section that definesa receiving surface for the electronic device. The cover section mayinclude electrical contacts located on the receiving surface. Theelectrical contacts can be configured to electrically couple to theelectronic device. The accessory device may further include a covermagnet located in the cover section. The cover magnet can be capable ofmagnetically coupling with a device magnet in the electronic device. Theaccessory device may further include a keyboard section rotatablycoupled to the cover section. The keyboard section may include akeyboard and a channel. The channel can be capable of receiving theelectronic device when the electronic device is coupled to the coversection.

In another aspect, an accessory device for use with an electronic deviceis described. The accessory device may include a cover section thatdefines a receiving surface for the electronic device. The accessorydevice may further include a keyboard section rotatably coupled to thecover section. The keyboard section may include a keyboard. The keyboardsection may further include a channel capable of receiving theelectronic device. The channel may include a first diagonal wall and asecond diagonal wall. The keyboard section may further include a firstmagnet located along the first diagonal wall. The keyboard section mayfurther include a second magnet located along the second diagonal wall.In some instances, the first magnet and the second magnet magneticallycouple with a device magnet of the electronic device when the electronicdevice is positioned in the channel.

In another aspect, an accessory device for use with an electronic deviceis described. The accessory device may include a keyboard section mayinclude a keyboard and a channel. The channel can be capable ofreceiving the electronic device. The accessory device may furtherinclude a cover section rotatably coupled to the keyboard section. Thecover may include a receiving surface for the electronic device. Thecover may further include electrical contacts located on the receivingsurface. The cover may further include a flexible circuit coupled to theelectrical contacts. The accessory device may further include a panelembedded in the cover section. The panel may include an embedded magnetcapable of magnetically coupling with a device magnet of the electronicdevice when the electronic device is positioned on the receivingsurface. The panel may further include a recess. In some instances, theflexible circuit is positioned in the recess.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments willbe, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features andadvantages be included within this description and this summary, bewithin the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the followingclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessorydevice, in accordance with some described embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 1,showing various internal features of the accessory device;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the panel, showing variousfeatures of the panel as well as other components located in the firstsection;

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the first section of the accessorydevice, showing the electrical contacts protruding from the firstsegment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the first section shown in FIG. 4,showing the electronic device positioned on the first section;

FIG. 6 illustrates a plan view of the electronic device positioned onthe first section of the accessory device;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of the second section, showingvarious features of the second section;

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross sectional view of the second section, showinga stop mechanism engaged with a key of the keyboard;

FIG. 9A illustrates a cross sectional view of an accessory device,showing various layers and components of a channel of the accessorydevice, in accordance with some described embodiments;

FIG. 9B illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device, showing an alternate configuration of a channel ofthe accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments;

FIG. 9C illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device, showing a channel with a material embedded in alayer, in accordance with some described embodiments;

FIG. 9D illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device, showing a channel and a molded insert installed atthe channel;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 1,showing the electronic device coupled to the accessory device andpositioned in the first channel, in accordance with some describedembodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing theelectronic device positioned in the second channel;

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing thefirst section engaged with the second section.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing theelectronic device positioned between, and engaged with, the firstsection and the second section;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing theelectronic device coupled to the first section, while the first sectionand the second section form a stand;

FIG. 15 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device, showing thefirst section partially extended laterally from the second section;

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the accessory device shown in FIG.15, showing the first segment extending beyond the second segment;

FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing theaccessory device supporting the electronic device on a rear surface ofthe accessory device;

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing theaccessory device supporting the electronic device in an alternateconfiguration;

FIG. 19 illustrates a user interacting with the accessory device andelectronic device in the configuration shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 illustrates the accessory device coupled with the electronicdevice, showing the accessory device engaged with, and suspended from, amagnetically attractable material using magnets in the accessory device;and

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of an accessory device, inaccordance with some described embodiments.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, accordingto common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below arenot necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various featuresand elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearlyillustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodimentsillustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood thatthe following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments toone preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to coveralternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included withinthe spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by theappended claims.

In the following detailed description, references are made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in whichare shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordancewith the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are describedin sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice thedescribed embodiments, it is understood that these examples are notlimiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the describedembodiments.

The following disclosure relates to an accessory device designed for usewith electronic devices, including portable computing devices (such astablet computing devices, smartphones, and laptop computing devices).Accessory devices described herein may be referred to as portableaccessory devices, accessory covers, accessory cases, cases, folios, asnon-limiting examples. Accessory devices described herein may include acover having segments foldable with respect to each other, as well as akeyboard coupled with the cover in a manner that allows rotationalmovement between the cover and the keyboard. The cover may furtherinclude electrical contacts designed to engage electrical contacts ofthe electronic device and place the electronic device in electricalcommunication with the accessory device, including the keyboard.

The keyboard may include several keys arranged in a QWERTYconfiguration, as a non-limiting example. Further, the keyboard mayinclude one or more channels (also referred to as troughs or trenches).Each channel is designed to receive part of the electronic device (whencoupled with the cover) and position the electronic device in a mannerthat allows a user to interact with the electronic device (inparticular, a display of the electronic device) and the keyboard. Also,each channel may include one or more magnets designed to magneticallycouple with magnets in the electronic device, which promotes retentionof the electronic device in the channel.

While traditional accessory devices include mechanical interlockingfeatures to couple the electronic device with the accessory device, theaccessory devices described herein may couple with and retain electronicdevices through magnets. In this regard, the cover and the keyboard mayinclude several embedded magnets. Further, the respective magnets in thecover and the keyboard can magnetically couple to each other, therebyplacing the cover in contact with the keyboard.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1-21. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thedetailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is forexplanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessorydevice 100, in accordance with some described embodiments. The accessorydevice 100 is designed as a complementary device for an electronicdevice 180. As shown, the accessory device 100 may include a firstsection 102 a and a second section 102 b connected to the first section102 a. The accessory device 100 may include a hinge 104 a that connectsthe first section 102 a with the second section 102 b. The hinge 104 aallows the first section 102 a to rotate or pivot with respect to thesecond section 102 b, and vice versa. The hinge 104 a may include aflexible material (such as polyurethane, as a non-limiting example) thatdefines an outer layer (or layers) extending across both the firstsection 102 a and the second section 102 b.

The first section 102 a, also referred to as a cover, a cover portion, acover section, an electronic device cover, or a segmented cover, maydefine a receiving surface for the electronic device 180. The firstsection 102 a may include a first segment 106 a and a second segment 106b that define that collectively define the receiving surface. The firstsegment 106 a is separated from the second segment 106 b by a hinge 104b positioned between the first segment 106 a and the second segment 106b. The hinge 104 b allows rotational movement of the first segment 106 arelative to the second segment 106 b, and vice versa. The hinge 104 bmay be formed from the aforementioned outer layer(s) used to form thehinge 104 a. In some embodiments, the first segment 106 a and the secondsegment 106 b are the same size, generally. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1, the first segment 106 a is larger than the second segment 106 b.Also, each of the first segment 106 a and the second segment 106 b mayinclude a microfiber layer (not labeled). In some instances, themicrofiber layer is restricted to the first segment 106 a and the secondsegment 106 b such that the microfiber layer does not cover the hinge104 b.

The second section 102 b, also referred to as a keyboard section or akeyboard cover, may include a keyboard 108. The keyboard 108 may includeseveral keys (not labeled) arranged in a QWERTY configuration, as anon-limiting example. The second section 102 b may further include oneor more channels designed to provide a location that is below orsub-flush with respect to a location of the second section 102 b thatsurrounds the one or more channels. For example, the second section 102b may include a first channel 112 a and a second channel 112 b. Thefirst channel 112 a and the second channel 112 b are designed to receivethe electronic device 180 (or a portion of the electronic device 180) inorder to place and position the electronic device 180 in a manner suchthat the electronic device 180 can be used with the keyboard 108. Also,the second section 102 b may include a dimension 103 a measured from arear surface of the second section 102 b to a key (not labeled) of thekeyboard 108. The second section 102 b may include a dimension 103 bmeasured from a rear surface of the second section 102 b to a sectionthat surrounds the first channel 112 a and the second channel 112 b. Thedimension 103 a may be the same as, or substantially similar to, thedimension 103 b, such that the keys of the keyboard 108 are planar withrespect to the surface surrounding the first channel 112 a and thesecond channel 112 b. In this manner, when the electronic device 180 iscoupled to the first section 102 a and the first section 102 a is foldedover the second section 102 b, the electronic device 180 may lie flat,or horizontal, on the second section 102 b.

The first section 102 a may include electrical contacts 114 designed toengage electrical contacts 184 (shown as dotted lines) located inopenings (not labeled) of a housing 182 of the electronic device 180,and place the accessory device 100 in communication (includingelectrical communication) with electronic device 180, and in particular,the keyboard 108. When the accessory device 100 is in communication withthe electronic device 180, the keyboard 108 can be used to provideinputs and commands to the electronic device 180 to control a display181 of the electronic device 180. As shown, the electrical contacts 114are located on the first segment 106 a. However, other locations arepossible (such as the second segment 106 b). Generally, the electricalcontacts 114 can be at any location corresponding to the location of theelectrical contacts 184 such that the electronic device 180 lies withinan outer perimeter of the first section 102 a when the electronic device180 is placed on the receiving surface of the first section 102 a. Also,while the electrical contacts 114 include three electrically conductivepins, the number of pins of the electrical contacts 114 may vary. Forexample, in some embodiments (not shown in FIG. 1), the electricalcontacts 114 include one, two, or four our more contacts. Also, whilethe electrical contacts 114 represent a physical/direct communicationbetween the accessory device 100 and the electronic device 180, theaccessory device 100 and the electronic device 180 may also be incommunication via wireless communication, such as Bluetooth®communication, as a non-limiting example.

The first section 102 a may further include an opening 116, or throughhole, designed to receive a camera assembly 186 and a flash module 187(shown as dotted lines) extending from the housing 182, thereby allowingthe electronic device 180 to capture images while coupled to the firstsection 102 a. Although not shown, the electronic device 180 may includea microphone positioned between the camera assembly 186 and the flashmodule 187. As shown, the opening 116 is located on the first segment106 a. However, other locations are possible. Generally, the opening 116can be at any location corresponding to the location of the cameraassembly 186 and the flash module 187 such that the electronic device180 lies within an outer perimeter of the first section 102 a when theelectronic device 180 is in contact with the receiving surface of thefirst section 102 a.

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device 100 shown in FIG.1, showing various internal features of the accessory device 100. Thefirst segment 106 a of the first section 102 a may include severalmagnets designed to magnetically couple with magnets in the electronicdevice 180 (shown in FIG. 1) to retain the electronic device 180 againstthe first section 102 a. For example, the first segment 106 a mayinclude a magnet 120 a, a magnet 120 b, and a magnet 120 c capable ofmagnetically coupling with magnets (or other magnetically attractableelements) in the electronic device 180, as well as a magnet 122 a, amagnet 122 b, and a magnet 122 c, respectively, located in the secondsection 102 b. The first segment 106 a may further include a magnet 120d, a magnet 120 e, and a magnet 120 f capable of magnetically couplingwith magnets (or other magnetically attractable elements) in theelectronic device 180, as well as a magnet 122 d, a magnet 122 e, and amagnet 122 f, respectively, located in the second section 102 b. Whenthe aforementioned magnets are not magnetically coupled with theelectronic device 180, the magnets in the first section 102 a canmagnetically couple with magnets in corresponding locations in thesecond section 102 b, by, for example, rotating the first section 102 aabout the hinge 104 a. Further, the first section 102 a can be rotatedabout the hinge 104 a such that the front surface (shown in FIG. 2)covers a front surface (shown in FIG. 2) of the second section 102 b.Alternatively, the first section 102 a can be rotated about the hinge104 a such that a back surface (not shown in FIG. 2) covers a backsurface (not shown in FIG. 2) of the second section 102 b.

The first section 102 a may include additional magnets used tomagnetically couple with the electronic device 180. For example, thefirst section 102 a may include a magnet 120 g, a magnet 120 h, a magnet120 i, and a magnet 120 j. It should be noted that the aforementionedmagnets shown in FIG. 2 may represent a group of two or more magnets.Also, the magnets located in the first section 102 a may be referred toas cover magnets, as the first section 102 a may be referred to as acover or a cover section. Also, the magnets located in the secondsection 102 b may be referred to as keyboard magnets, as the secondsection 102 b may be referred to as a keyboard or keyboard section. Itshould also be noted that additional magnets in the first section 102 aand second section 102 b are possible.

An external magnetic field (not shown in FIG. 2) provided by each magnetin the first segment 106 a can be used to magnetically attract magnetsin the electronic device 180 and retain the electronic device 180 (shownin FIG. 1) against the first section 102 a. Further, this magneticattraction can withstand gravitational forces acting on the electronicdevice 180, and the first section 102 a can retain the electronic device180 even when gravity is acting to remove the electronic device 180. Inthis regard, the first section 102 a may not require mechanicalretaining features, such as sidewalls and/or locks, designed to wraparound and/or interlock with the electronic device 180 to retain theelectronic device 180. However, in some instances, the second segment106 b may optionally include magnets, such as a magnet 120 k and amagnet 120 l, that each provide an additional external magnetic field(not shown in FIG. 2) used to retain the electronic device 180 with thefirst section 102 a by magnetic attraction. The magnet 120 k and/or themagnet 120 l may represent a group of two or more magnets. Also, a panel134 (shown as a dotted line) may include some of the magnets in thefirst segment 106 a. In this regard, the magnets in the first segment106 a may be embedded in the panel 134. This will be shown below.

As described above, the size of the first segment 106 a is differentfrom the size of the second segment 106 b. In particular, a dimension124 a of the first segment 106 a is greater than a dimension 124 b ofthe second segment 106 b. This may facilitate positioning the firstsection 102 a in a desired manner to support the electronic device 180.This will be shown and described below.

The second section 102 b may further include magnets along an edge (ofthe second section 102 b). For example, the second section 102 b mayinclude a magnet 126 a, a magnet 126 b, a magnet 126 c, and a magnet 126d. These magnets are designed to magnetically couple with magnets (ormagnetically attractable materials) in the electronic device 180 inorder to retain the electronic device 180 with the second section 102 balong the edge.

The second section 102 b may include additional magnets. For example,the second section 102 b may include a magnetic assembly 128 a and amagnetic assembly 128 b (both shown as dotted lines), with each magneticassembly including two or more magnets positioned around the firstchannel 112 a. The magnetic assembly 128 a and the magnetic assembly 128b are designed to magnetically couple with magnets (not shown in FIG.2), or magnetically attractable materials, in the electronic device 180in order to retain a portion of the electronic device 180 within thefirst channel 112 a. The second section 102 b may further include amagnetic assembly 128 c and a magnetic assembly 128 d (both shown asdotted lines), with each magnetic assembly including two or more magnetspositioned around the second channel 112 b. The magnetic assembly 128 cand the magnetic assembly 128 d are designed to magnetically couple withmagnets (not shown in FIG. 2), or magnetically attractable materials, inthe electronic device 180 in order to retain a portion of the electronicdevice 180 within the second channel 112 b.

To provide additional support, the second section 102 b may include asupport member 129 that extends laterally beyond the shell to opposingedges of the keyboard 108 and the section associated with the firstchannel 112 a and the second channel 112 b. Also, the second section 102b may include a shell (shown later) that provides structural support tothe keyboard 108, the first channel 112 a, and the second channel 112 b.However, the shell may not extend (laterally) to opposing edges of thekeyboard 108, and may include cut outs, or removed section, in locationscorresponds to the channels of the second section 102 b.

It may be advantageous to selectively activate or deactivate thekeyboard 108 based upon the position of the electronic device 180relative to the accessory device 100. In this regard, the accessorydevice 100 may include sensors designed to detect an external magneticfield generated from magnets in the electronic device 180 to determinethe position of the electronic device 180. For example, the accessorydevice 100 may include a first sensor 132 a and a second sensor 132 b.The first sensor 132 a and the second sensor 132 b are designed todetect when the electronic device 180 is positioned in the first channel112 a and the second channel 112 b, respectively. In some embodiments,the first sensor 132 a and the second sensor 132 b are Hall Effectsensors designed to detect an external magnetic field generated by amagnet in the electronic device 180.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the panel 134, showing variousfeatures of the panel 134 as well as other components located in thefirst section 102 a (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). The panel 134 may includea first layer 136 a, a second layer 136 b, a third layer 136 c, a fourthlayer 136 d, and a fifth layer 136 e. As shown, the first layer 136 aand the fifth layer 136 e surround the second layer 136 b, the thirdlayer 136 c, and the fourth layer 136 d. At least some of the layers mayinclude glass fiber, and at least some layers may include foam. Forexample, the first layer 136 a, the second layer 136 b, the fourth layer136 d, and the fifth layer 136 e may include glass fiber. Some layersmay include a combination of glass fiber and foam. For example, thethird layer 136 c may include a foam layer as well as glass fiber.Furthermore, the relative densities of glass fiber may vary among thelayers. For example, the first layer 136 a and the fifth layer 136 e mayinclude a relatively high-density glass fiber, while the second layer136 b, the third layer 136 c, and the fourth layer 136 d may include arelatively low-density glass fiber. In this regard, the first layer 136a and the fifth layer 136 e are relatively rigid as compared to thesecond layer 136 b, the third layer 136 c, and the fourth layer 136 d.Also, the third layer 136 c may be referred to as a central layer or afoam layer. Also, while FIG. 3 shows a discrete number of layers thatdefine the panel 134, the number of panels that form the panel 134 mayvary in other embodiments.

The first layer 136 a, the second layer 136 b, the third layer 136 c,the fourth layer 136 d, and the fifth layer 136 e may include a firstopening 116 a, a second opening 116 b, a third opening 116 c, a fourthopening 116 d, and a fifth opening 116 e, respectively. When assembled,the aforementioned openings at least partially define the opening 116 ofthe first section 102 a (shown in FIG. 1). The panel 134 may include areinforcement layer 130 bonded to the third layer 136 c at a corner. Thereinforcement layer 130 may include glass or another rigid material.Also, the reinforcement layer 130 may define the third opening 116 c aswell as the opening 116 of the first section 102 a (shown in FIG. 1). Inthis manner, the panel 134 can be strengthened in the corner to offsetthe void of material due to the opening 116, and due to the relativelylow-density foam material.

The third layer 136 c is designed to carry the magnets in the firstsegment 106 a (shown in FIG. 2). For example, the third layer 136 ccarries the magnet 120 a, the magnet 120 b, and the magnet 120 c.Additional magnets (not labeled) are carried by the third layer 136 c.The third layer 136 c can undergo a machining operation to form pockets,or openings, to receive each of the magnets. Further, additional layersmay carry magnets. For example, the second layer 136 b may carry themagnet 120 g and the magnet 120 h, while the fourth layer 136 d maycarry the magnet 120 i and the magnet 120 j. Other combinations arepossible. The layers that carry the magnets may place the magnets incloser proximity to magnets, or magnetic elements, external to theelectronic device 180 (shown in FIG. 1) in order to promote magneticcoupling with magnets in the electronic device 180.

The electrical contacts 114 are carried by a circuit board 138. Thecircuit board 138 may include a printed circuit board or a flexiblecircuit board. In order for the panel 134 to accommodate the circuitboard 138, the third layer 136 c may include a recess 142 (shown asdotted lines) that receives the circuit board 138. The recess 142defines a cavity, or partial opening, that does not fully extend throughthe third layer 136 c, with exception of openings (not labeled) throughwhich the electrical contacts 114 pass when the circuit board 138 ispositioned in the recess 142. Further, the fourth layer 136 d mayinclude an opening 144 through which the circuit board 138 passes. Whenthe third layer 136 c is assembled with the fourth layer 136 d, theopening 144 is aligned with the recess 142. Further, when the thirdlayer 136 c is assembled with the second layer 136 b and the secondlayer 136 b is assembled with the first layer 136 a, the electricalcontacts 114 pass through openings (not labeled) in the first layer 136a.

The electrical contacts 114 are designed to couple with the electronicdevice 180 (shown in FIG. 1) such that the keyboard 108 (shown in FIGS.1 and 2) is in communication with the electronic device 180. In order tocomplete the communication pathway, electrically conductive material canelectrically couple with the circuit board 138 as well as a circuitboard(s) in the second section 102 b (shown later). For example, a firstconductive material 146 a, a second conductive material 146 b, and athird conductive material 146 c are electrically coupled to the circuitboard 138. The first conductive material 146 a, the second conductivematerial 146 b, and the third conductive material 146 c may include anelectrically conductive fabric. The first conductive material 146 a, thesecond conductive material 146 b, and the third conductive material 146c may extend from the circuit board 138, through the hinge 104 a (shownin FIG. 1), and into the second section 102 b (shown in FIG. 1) toelectrically with the keyboard 108 (shown in FIG. 1) via a circuit board(not shown).

Although not shown, several adhesive layers may be used to adhesivelysecure parts together. For example, an adhesive layer may adhesivelysecure the circuit board 138 to the third layer 136 c at the recess 142.Also, several caps, or covers, may overlay the some components in orderto conceal the presence of the components. For example, a glass fibercap may cover the first conductive material 146 a, the second conductivematerial 146 b, and/or the third conductive material 146 c in order tohide the conductive material(s). This may be useful when a polyurethanelayer covers an outer perimeter of the accessory device 100 (shown inFIGS. 1 and 2).

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the first section 102 a of theaccessory device 100, showing the electrical contacts 114 protrudingfrom the first segment 106 a. The first segment 106 a and the secondsegment 106 b may include a microfiber layer that covers a compressiblematerial. In this regard, the first segment 106 a and the second segment106 b may compress when the electronic device 180 (shown in FIG. 1) isplaced on the first section 102 a and in contact with the electricalcontacts 114.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the first section 102 a shown in FIG.4, showing the electronic device 180 positioned on the first section 102a. As shown, the first segment 106 a and the second segment 106 bcompress from the weight of the electronic device 180. Also, a firstelectrical contact 114 a and a second electrical contact 114 b (bothpart of the electrical contacts 114 of the accessory device 100) areengaged with a first electrical contact 184 a and a second electricalcontact 184 b (both part of the electrical contacts 184 of theelectronic device 180), respectively, thereby placing the accessorydevice 100 in communication with the electronic device 180. Thecompression of the first segment 106 a causes the first electricalcontact 114 a and the second electrical contact 114 b to move along theZ-axis such that the first electrical contact 114 a and the secondelectrical contact 114 b are sub-flush with respect to a surface of thefirst segment 106 a (or at least co-planar with respect to the surfaceof the first segment 106 a). This prevents the electronic device 180from resting along some non-horizontal plane on the first section 102 a.Also, when the electronic device 180 or another object (such as a digitof a user) slides laterally across the first segment 106 a to engage atleast one of the electrical contacts 114, the compression of the firstsegment 106 a and the second segment 106 b prevent the electricalcontact 114 from snagging and interlocking with the electronic device180 or the other object, thereby preventing damage to the electronicdevice 180 and/or the accessory device 100.

FIG. 6 illustrates a plan view of the electronic device 180 positionedon the first section 102 a of the accessory device 100. The magnets ofthe accessory device 100 are magnetically coupled with at least somemagnets (not shown in FIG. 6) of the electronic device 180 to formmultiple magnetic circuits. Although not shown, the magnets in theelectronic device 180 are generally locations corresponding to magnetsin the accessory device 100. The magnetic attraction between the magnetsmay counter some lateral movement of the electronic device 180 withrespect to the first section 102 a of the accessory device 100. Further,the magnetic attraction between the magnets may cause the electronicdevice 180 to return to its initial position (shown in FIG. 6) on thefirst section 102 a. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, thefirst electrical contact 184 a of the electronic device 180 ispositioned over the first electrical contact 114 a of the accessorydevice 100. The first electrical contact 114 a of the accessory device100 includes a diameter such that a shift of the electronic device 180along the X- and/or the Y-axis that causes a corresponding lateral shiftof the first electrical contact 184 a of the electronic device 180.However, if the shift causes the first electrical contact 184 a to moveto a circumference 118 around the first electrical contact 114 a, but nofurther, the magnetic attraction causes the electronic device 180, andin particular, the first electrical contact 184 a, to return to itsinitial position (shown in FIG. 6). The circumference 118 is a functionof the size of the first electrical contact 114 a as well as the size,shape and location of the magnets (including the magnet 120 a, themagnet 120 b, and the magnet 120 c, along with additional magnets (notlabeled) located in the first section 102 a. The remaining electricalcontact(s) of the accessory device 100 may exhibit a similarrelationship.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of the second section 102 b, showingvarious features of the second section 102 b. The second section 102 bmay include an outer layer 148 that covers the keyboard 108 (includingthe keys), the first channel 112 a, and the second channel 112 b. Insome embodiments, the outer layer 148 includes polyurethane. Also,although not shown, the outer layer 148 may extend across the firstsection 102 a (shown in FIG. 1).

The second section 102 b may further include a shell 152. The shell 152may provide structural rigidity to the second section 102 b. In thisregard, the shell 152 may be formed from plastic or other rigidmaterial(s). As shown, the shell 152 includes several openings (notlabeled) for the keys of the keyboard 108. Also, the shell 152 mayinclude two pairs of diagonal walls (not labeled), with one pair ofdiagonal walls defining the first channel 112 a, and another pair ofdiagonal walls defining the second channel 112 b. This will be furthershown and discussed below. Each diagonal wall may include severalopenings to accommodate a magnetic assembly. For example, the shell 152may include openings 154 that receive the magnets of the magneticassembly 128 a. Although not labeled, the shell 152 includes openingsthat receive the magnets of the magnetic assembly 128 b, the magneticassembly 128 c, and the magnetic assembly 128 d. The shell 152 mayinclude additional openings (similar to the openings 154) to accommodatethe remaining magnets of the magnetic assemblies associated with thechannels.

The second section 102 b may further include a circuit board 156 a. Thecircuit board 156 a is electrically coupled with the first conductivematerial 146 a, the second conductive material 146 b, and the thirdconductive material 146 c. The circuit board 156 a may include one ormore processor circuits (not labeled) to control and process inputs tokeys of the keyboard 108. In this regard, the second section 102 b mayinclude a circuit board 156 b associated with the keyboard 108. Thecircuit board 156 b can be electrically coupled with the circuit board156 a by a flexible circuit 158. The circuit board 156 a may also sendcommands to the electronic device 180 (shown in FIG. 1), and control andprocess inputs received from the electronic device 180. The circuitboard 156 a may electrically couple with, and receive inputs from, thefirst sensor 132 a and the second sensor 132 b (shown in FIG. 2). As aresult, the processor circuits of the circuit board 156 a may providecommands to selectively activate and deactivate the keyboard 108 basedon received inputs from the first sensor 132 a and the second sensor 132b.

In order to provide additional structural support, the second section102 b may include several blocks. For example, the second section 102 bmay include a first block 162 a and a second block 162 b. The firstblock 162 a and the second block 162 b may include glass fiber blocksthat provide added stiffness to the second section 102 b while limitingthe amount of weight added to the second section 102 b. As shown, thefirst block 162 a may include a recess (not labeled) that receives thecircuit board 156 a.

The second section 102 b may further include an enclosure 164 thatprovides a protective rear cover to the second section 102 b. Theenclosure 164 may include a back wall and sidewalls (not labeled) thatdefine an internal volume to house several components shown in FIG. 7.Although not shown, an outer layer, which may include polyurethane, maycover the enclosure 164. Several additional materials may be included.For example, a thermoplastic shield may cover the first conductivematerial 146 a, the second conductive material 146 b, and the thirdconductive material 146 c in order to provide ingress protection andelectrical insulation.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross sectional view of the second section 102 b,showing a stop mechanism 166 engaged with a key 108 a of the keyboard108. The key 108 a can be depressed in a manner that causes contact withthe circuit board 156 b, thereby generating a command. When the key 108a is released, the key 108 a travels in a direction of an arrow 170, andreturns to an initial position. The stop mechanism 166 can engage thekey 108 a to prevent additional, unwanted travel in the direction of thearrow 170. Also, as shown, a first outer layer 150 a combines with asecond outer layer 150 b to cover the keyboard 108 and the enclosure164. Also, as shown, the circuit board 156 b can be adhesively securedto the enclosure 164.

FIGS. 9A-9D show various implementations of a channel that can be usedin an accessory device, such as the accessory device 100 (shown in FIG.1). The channels shown and described in FIGS. 9A-9D can substitute forthe first channel 112 a and/or the second channel 112 b (shown in FIG.1). Also, at least some features shown and described in FIG. 9A-9D maybe combined with each other.

FIG. 9A illustrates a cross sectional view of an accessory device 200,showing various layers and components of a channel 212 of the accessorydevice 200, in accordance with some described embodiments. The accessorydevice 200 may include a first layer 248 a, or outer layer, which mayinclude a polyurethane layer. The accessory device 200 may furtherinclude a second layer 248 b, formed from a rigid material such as glassfiber (as a non-limiting example). The accessory device 200 may furtherinclude a third layer 248 c, which may be part of a shell used in asecond section of an accessory device. For example, the third layer 248c may any features described for the shell 152 (shown in FIG. 7). Thechannel 212 may be defined by the first layer 248 a, the second layer248 b, and the third layer 248 c. The accessory device 200 may include alayer 248 d that terminates at the channel 212. The layer 248 d mayinclude a woven fabric material, such as taffeta.

The third layer 248 c may include openings (not labeled) in whichmagnets of a magnetic assembly 228 are positioned. For example, themagnetic assembly 228 may include a first magnet 272 a and a secondmagnet 272 b. As shown, the first magnet 272 a and the second magnet 272b surround the channel 212. In this regard, the first magnet 272 a andthe second magnet 272 b may be referred to as channel magnets. The firstmagnet 272 a and the second magnet 272 b may adhesively secure with thesecond layer 248 b by an adhesive (not labeled). Each magnet may includea cap formed for a material (such as steel). For example, the firstmagnet 272 a includes a cap 274 a and the second magnet 272 b includes acap 274 b. Although not shown, the third layer 248 c may includeadditional openings, and the magnetic assembly 228 may includeadditional magnets, with each additional magnet positioned in anadditional opening of the third layer 248 c. The arrangement may besimilar to the openings 154 of the shell 152 (shown in FIG. 7) and themagnetic assembly 128 a (shown in FIG. 7). Generally, the number ofopenings is the same as the number of magnets of a magnetic assembly.

The first layer 248 a and the second layer 248 b are relatively thin toallow external magnetic fields (shown as dotted lines) of the firstmagnet 272 a and the second magnet 272 b to pass through the first layer248 a, the second layer 248 b, and the adhesive. This allows the firstmagnet 272 a and the second magnet 272 b to magnetically couple with amagnet(s) in an electronic device (such as the electronic device 180,shown in FIG. 1). However, the second layer 248 b should be relativelyrigid to maintain the first magnet 272 a and the second magnet 272 b ina fixed position, as the first magnet 272 a and the second magnet 272 bmay be magnetically attracted to each other.

The magnets of the magnetic assembly 228 can be arranged in differentconfigurations. For example, the first magnet 272 a and the secondmagnet 272 b can be arranged to form a Halbach array in which theexternal magnetic field is additive, or augmented, at a locationassociated with the channel 212, while the external magnetic field issignificantly reduced, or even canceled, on locations internally withinthe accessory device 200 that are not associated with the channel 212.This described arrangement may enhance the magnetic field to betterretain an electronic device.

The channel 212 may include a first diagonal wall 276 a and a seconddiagonal wall 276 b, both of which are defined in part by the firstlayer 248 a, the second layer 248 b, and the third layer 248 c. Asshown, the first diagonal wall 276 a is separated from the seconddiagonal wall 276 b by an angle 280. The angle 280 may be approximatelyin the range of 70 to 110 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle 280 is90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle 280 is 91.5 degrees. Theangle 280 may be slightly larger than an angle between a back wall and asidewall of a housing of an electronic device (such as the electronicdevice 180, shown in FIG. 1).

FIG. 9B illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device 300, showing an alternate configuration of a channel312 of the accessory device 300, in accordance with some describedembodiments. The accessory device 300 may include a first layer 348 a, asecond layer 348 b, and a third layer 348 c that may include anymaterials and features described for the first layer 248 a, the secondlayer 248 b, and the third layer 248 c, respectively (shown in FIG. 9A).The accessory device 300 may include a layer 348 d that terminates atthe channel 312. The layer 348 d may include any materials and featuresdescribed for the layer 248 d (shown in FIG. 9A). The third layer 348 cmay include openings to receive a first magnet 372 a and a second magnet372 b of a magnetic assembly 328. The third layer 348 c and the magneticassembly 328 may include any features shown and described for the thirdlayer 248 c and the magnetic assembly 228, respectively, shown in FIG.9A.

The channel 312 may include a first diagonal wall 376 a and a seconddiagonal wall 376 b, both of which are defined in part by the firstlayer 348 a, the second layer 348 b, and the third layer 348 c. Asshown, the first diagonal wall 376 a is separated from the seconddiagonal wall 376 b by an angle 380, which may include any angledescribed for the angle 280 (shown in FIG. 9A). While the first diagonalwall 276 a and the second diagonal wall 276 b (shown in FIG. 9A) areapproximately the same size, the first diagonal wall 376 a and thesecond diagonal wall 376 b are different. For example, the firstdiagonal wall 376 a is smaller than the second diagonal wall 376 b.Also, the first diagonal wall 376 a may be relatively steep as comparedto the second diagonal wall 376 b. As a result, an electronic device(such as the electronic device 180 shown in FIG. 1) may be positioneddifferently in the channel 312, as compared to the channel 212 (shown inFIG. 9A).

FIG. 9C illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device 400, showing an alternate configuration of a channel412 of the accessory device 400, in accordance with some describedembodiments. The accessory device 400 may include a first layer 448 a, asecond layer 448 b, and a third layer 448 c that may include anymaterials and features described for the first layer 248 a, the secondlayer 248 b, and the third layer 248 c, respectively (shown in FIG. 9A).The accessory device 400 may include a layer 448 d that terminates atthe channel 412. The layer 448 d may include any materials and featuresdescribed for the layer 248 d (shown in FIG. 9A). The third layer 448 cmay include openings to receive a first magnet 472 a and a second magnet472 b of a magnetic assembly 428. The third layer 448 c and the magneticassembly 428 may include any features shown and described for the thirdlayer 248 c and the magnetic assembly 228, respectively, shown in FIG.9A.

The second layer 448 b may include different material, as compared toprior embodiments. For example, the second layer 448 b may include ametal (or metal alloy), such as SUS stainless steel. Further, the secondlayer 448 b may be molded to the third layer 448 c by a moldingoperation, including an insert molding operation.

FIG. 9D illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment ofan accessory device 500, showing a channel 512 and a molded insert 578installed at the channel 512. The accessory device 500 may include afirst layer 548 a, a second layer 548 b, and a third layer 548 c thatmay include any materials and features described for the first layer 248a, the second layer 248 b, and the third layer 248 c, respectively(shown in FIG. 9A). The molded insert 578 may carry the second layer 548b and a magnetic assembly 528, which includes a first magnet 572 a and asecond magnet 572 b. In this regard, the second layer 548 b and themagnetic assembly 528 can be molded into the molded insert 578, whichmay include a glass fiber material. The magnetic assembly 528 mayinclude any features shown and described for the magnetic assembly 228(shown in FIG. 9A). The third layer 548 c may include a steppedconfiguration. In order to assemble the molded insert 578 with theaccessory device 500, the molded insert 578 may include a correspondingstepped configuration.

The first magnet 572 a and the second magnet 572 b may include achamfered region 573 a and a chamfered region 573 b, respectively. Thechamfered regions reduce the overall size of their respective magnets inorder to create an accessory device 500 that includes a reduced profile.Also, the chamfered regions represent less magnetic material, which mayreduce the external magnetic fields of the magnets along a rear section(not shown in FIG. 9D) of the accessory device 500. The reduced externalmagnetic fields may prevent unwanted interference with magneticallysensitive objects, such as credit cards, placed on the rear section.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100 shown inFIG. 1, showing the electronic device 180 coupled to the accessorydevice 100 and positioned in the first channel 112 a, in accordance withsome described embodiments. As shown, the electronic device 180 includesa magnet 188 (or in some cases, multiple magnets) that is magneticallycoupled with a first magnet 172 a and a second magnet 172 b of themagnetic assembly 128 a. When a force (in the direction of an arrow 179a) is applied to the electronic device 180, a rotational force (in thedirection of the arrow 179 b) may cause the electronic device 180 torotate and leave the first channel 112 a. However, the magnetic assembly128 a may counter this rotational force. For example, the first magnet172 a may include a size and shape that is greater than that of thesecond magnet 172 b. In this manner, the first magnet 172 a may includea stronger external magnetic field as compared to that of the secondmagnet 172 b. The relatively stronger external magnetic field of thefirst magnet 172 a provides a force in the direction of an arrow 179 cthat is opposite to the force in the direction of the arrow 179 b,thereby counteracting the rotational force. Also, the magnetic couplingbetween the magnet 188 and the second magnet 172 b provides a force inthe direction, or at least approximately in the direction, of gravity tomaintain the electronic device 180 in the first channel 112 a. It shouldbe noted that the magnetic assembly 128 b (shown in FIG. 2) may includea number of magnets and associated features described for the magneticassembly 128 a. Furthermore, the electronic device 180 may include anadditional magnet similar to that of the magnet 188 that magneticallycouple with the magnetic assembly 128 a. It should be noted that themagnetic assembly 128 b (shown in FIG. 2) may include a number ofmagnets and associated features described for the magnetic assembly 128a. Also, the magnet 188 (and any other magnets within the electronicdevice 180) may be referred to as a device magnet.

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing theelectronic device 180 positioned in the second channel 112 b. As shown,the magnet 188 is magnetically coupled with a first magnet 172 c and asecond magnet 172 d of the magnetic assembly 128 c. When a force (in thedirection of an arrow 179 d) is applied to the electronic device 180,the electronic device 180 may be lifted out of the second channel 112 band away from the second section 102 b. However, the magnetic assembly128 c may counter the force. For example, the second magnet 172 d mayinclude a size and shape that is greater than that of the first magnet172 c. In this manner, the second magnet 172 d may include a strongerexternal magnetic field as compared to that of the first magnet 172 c.The relatively stronger external magnetic field of the second magnet 172d provides a force in the direction of an arrow 179 e that is oppositeto the force in the direction of the arrow 179 d, thereby counteractingthe force. Also, the magnetic coupling between the magnet 188 in theelectronic device 180 and the first magnet 172 c provides a force tomaintain the electronic device 180 in the second channel 112 b. Itshould be noted that the magnetic assembly 128 d (shown in FIG. 2) mayinclude a number of magnets and associated features described for themagnetic assembly 128 c. Furthermore, the electronic device 180 mayinclude additional magnet similar to that of the magnet 188 thatmagnetically couple with the magnetic assembly 128 d.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show the first section 102 a supporting the electronicdevice 180 in an upright configuration such that a user can interactwith both the keyboard 108 and the display 181. Further, the disparatesize between the first segment 106 a and the second segment 106 b (thatis, the first segment 106 a being larger than the second segment 106 b)allows the first section 102 a to adjust, thereby allowing theelectronic device 180 to be positioned in the first channel 112 a andthe second channel 112 b. Also, the orientation of the magnet 188 andthe magnets of the magnetic assembly 128 a shown in FIG. 10 form amagnetic circuit in which the magnetic field is in a clockwisedirection, while the orientation of the magnet 188 and the magnets ofthe magnetic assembly 128 c shown in FIG. 11 form a magnetic circuit inwhich the magnetic field is in a counter-clockwise direction.

Also, referring to FIG. 2, the accessory device 100 includes a firstsensor 132 a and a second sensor 132 b. When the electronic device 180is in the first channel 112 a, the first sensor 132 a can detect anexternal magnetic field (not shown in FIG. 10) generated by a magnet inthe electronic device 180, and provide an input to a processor circuiton the circuit board 156 a (shown in FIG. 7), which can subsequentlyprovide a command to activate the keyboard 108. Similarly, when theelectronic device 180 is in the second channel 112 b, the second sensor132 b can detect an external magnetic field (not shown in FIG. 11)generated by a magnet in the electronic device 180, and provide an inputto a processor circuit on the circuit board 156 a (shown in FIG. 7),which can subsequently provide a command to activate the keyboard 108.The processor circuit on the circuit board 156 a can provide a commandto deactivate the keyboard 108 when neither the first sensor 132 a northe second sensor 132 b detect the magnet 188. By selectively activatingand deactivating the keyboard 108, the keyboard 108 is active only whenit can be accessed by a user and is inactive when it cannot. This mayconserve battery power as well as prevent unwanted inputs (e.g.,keystrokes) to the keyboard 108. Moreover, the keyboard 108 may benormally in a deactivated mode (i.e., inactive) until triggered orawakened using the first sensor 132 a or the second sensor 132 b.

FIGS. 12-19 show various configurations capable by the accessory device100. Further, the various configurations of the accessory device 100 areattainable when the electronic device 180 is engaged with the accessorydevice 100 and retained by the accessory device 100 by magneticcoupling.

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing thefirst section 102 a engaged with the second section 102 b. As shown, arear surface (or back surface) of the first section 102 a is engagedwith a rear surface (or back surface) of the second section 102 b. Thefirst section 102 a can remain engaged with the second section 102 bthrough magnet attraction between magnets in first section 102 a andmagnets in the second section 102 b. For example, the magnet 120 a inthe first section 102 a may magnetically couple with the magnet 122 a inthe second section 102 b. Additional magnets (not shown in FIG. 12) inthe first section 102 a may magnetically couple with additional magnets(not shown in FIG. 12) in the second section 102 b.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing theelectronic device 180 positioned between, and engaged with, the firstsection 102 a and the second section 102 b. In order to maintain theengagement, magnets in the electronic device 180 may magnetically couplewith magnets in both the first section 102 a and the second section 102b. For example, the electronic device 180 includes a magnet 189magnetically coupled with both the magnet 120 a in the first section 102a and the magnet 122 a in the second section 102 b. Furthermore, theelectronic device 180 may include a magnet 191 magnetically coupled witha magnet 126 a located along an edge of the second section 102 b. Theelectronic device 180 may include additional magnets (not shown in FIG.13), with each additional magnet magnetically coupled with one of themagnet 126 b, the magnet 126 c, or the magnet 126 d (shown in FIG. 2) inthe second section 102 b.

Also, in some instances, the first sensor 132 a and/or the second sensor132 b may detect an external magnetic field generated from a magnet (ormagnets) in the electronic device 180, thereby generating a subsequentcommand to activate the keyboard 108 (shown in FIG. 2), even though thekeyboard 108 is inaccessible. However, the accessory device 100 mayinclude a third sensor 132 c capable of detecting an external magneticfield from the magnet 188 in the electronic device 180. The third sensor132 c can send an input to the processor circuit on the circuit board156 a (shown in FIG. 6) when the external magnetic field is detected.The processor circuit can then generate a command that deactivates thekeyboard 108. In other words, an input from the third sensor 132 c canoverride inputs from the first sensor 132 a and the second sensor 132 b.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing theelectronic device 180 coupled to the first section 102 a, while thefirst section 102 a and the second section 102 b form a stand. As shown,the first section 102 a is separated from the second section 102 b toform a triangular stand. Also, the electronic device 180 is retained bythe first section 102 a through magnetic coupling between magnets (notlabeled) in the electronic device 180 and magnets (not labeled) in thefirst section 102 a.

FIG. 15 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device 100, showing thefirst section 102 a partially extended laterally from the second section102 b. As shown, the electronic device 180 (shown as a dotted line) iscoupled to the first section 102 a. The camera assembly 186 and theflash module 187 are aligned with the opening 116 in the first section102 a, and as a result, are unobstructed from the second section 102 b,thereby allowing the camera assembly 186 to capture images and the flashmodule 187 to provide additional light.

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100 shown inFIG. 15, showing the first segment 106 a extending beyond the secondsegment 106 b. Based upon the disparate size between the first segment106 a and the second segment 106 b, the first segment 106 a extendslaterally beyond the second section 102 b. This allows for unobstructedimage capturing by the camera assembly 186, as the second section 102 bdoes not cover the first segment 106 a. Also, the FIG. 16 shows acompact configuration of the accessory device 100 while still carryingthe electronic device 180 in manner in which a user can interact withthe display 181 (which may include a capacitive touch input display) inorder to control the camera assembly 186 to capture images.

FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing theaccessory device 100 supporting the electronic device 180 on a rearsurface 105 of the accessory device 100. The rear surface 105 mayinclude a rear surface of the second section 102 b. As shown, the firstsegment 106 a is capable of supporting the electronic device 180 withoutengagement between the second segment 106 b and the electronic device180. This allows the second segment 106 b to form a support beam anddefine (along with the first segment 106 a and the second section 102 b)a triangular support. The first segment 106 a may be magneticallycoupled with the electronic device 180 through magnets (not shown inFIG. 17) in first segment 106 a and the electronic device 180.

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of the accessory device 100, showing theaccessory device 100 supporting the electronic device 180 in analternate configuration. As shown, the electronic device 180 is engagedwith the first segment 106 a. The first segment 106 a may bemagnetically coupled with the electronic device 180 through magnets (notlabeled in FIG. 18) in first segment 106 a and the electronic device180. The keyboard 108 is facing away from the display 181, which, insome instances, may trigger a deactivation of the keyboard 108 as boththe display 181 and the keyboard 108 are generally not simultaneouslyvisible by a user. However, a fourth sensor 132 d may provide an inputto the processor circuit on the circuit board 156 a (shown in FIG. 7)denoting the absence of a detected external magnetic field, which mayactivate the keyboard 108. As a result, the keyboard 108 may beactivated even when the keyboard 108 and the display 181 are facing awayfrom each other.

FIG. 19 illustrates a user 193 interacting with the accessory device 100and electronic device 180 in the configuration shown in FIG. 18. Asshown, the user 193 can view the display 181 (shown in FIG. 18) whilealso using the keys of the keyboard 108, as the keyboard 108 is active.While the fourth sensor 132 d (shown in FIG. 18) is generally describedas a Hall Effect sensor, in some embodiments, the fourth sensor 132 d isan accelerometer or an orientation sensor that determines theorientation of the accessory device 100 as shown in FIG. 19, therebyallowing the accessory device 100 to determine that the keyboard 108 isusable by the user 193. Also, the electronic device 180 may communicateto the accessory device 100 the type of software program(s) (not shownin FIG. 19) in use by the user 193 and displayed on the display 181(shown in FIG. 18). For example, the software program may include a gamein which the keyboard 108 is used a controller for the game, or a mediaplayer in which the keyboard 108 is used to control the media played bythe media player. Accordingly, the electronic device 180 may notify theaccessory device 100 that the keyboard 108 can be used with the softwareprogram.

FIG. 20 illustrates the accessory device 100 coupled with the electronicdevice 180, showing the accessory device 100 engaged with, and suspendedfrom, a magnetically attractable material 195 using magnets in theaccessory device 100. The magnetically attractable material 195 (shownas a dotted line) may be integrated with a chalkboard, a dry eraseboard, or refrigerator, as non-limiting examples. As shown, themagnetically attractable material 195 is integrated with a dry eraseboard 197 that is hung vertically. The accessory device 100 includes asufficient number of magnets (such as the magnet 120 a and the magneticassembly 128 a) that generate (collectively) an external magnetic fieldthat can magnetically couple with the magnetically attractable material195 and support the weight of the accessory device 100 and theelectronic device 180, thereby countering gravitational forces. In someinstances, the magnets in the first section 102 a alone provide anexternal magnetic field sufficient to support the weight of theaccessory device 100 and the electronic device 180. In some instances,the magnets in the second section 102 b alone provide an externalmagnetic field sufficient to support the weight of the accessory device100 and the electronic device 180.

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of an accessory device 600, inaccordance with some embodiments. The accessory device 600 is capable ofimplementing the various techniques described herein. The accessorydevice 600 may include any features described herein for an accessorydevice. Further, the accessory device 100 (previously shown) may includeany features described herein for the accessory device 600. Also,electronic devices described herein may include at least some featuresdescribed for the accessory device 600. In this regard, the accessorydevice 600 and/or the electronic device 180 (shown in FIG. 1) mayinclude one or more processors 610 for executing functions of theaccessory device 600. The one or more processors 610 can refer to atleast one of a central processing unit (CPU) and at least onemicrocontroller for performing dedicated functions.

According to some embodiments, the accessory device 600 can include oneor more sensors 630 capable of detecting an orientation of the accessorydevice 600. In some examples, the one or more sensors 630 may include anaccelerometer, an electronic gyroscope, or some other orientationsensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 630 can determinewhether the accessory device 600 is positioned in a manner that a usercan use certain features (such as a keyboard) of the accessory device600. In response, the one or more processors 610 can modify anotification that activates both the keyboard and an electronic devicedisplay coupled to the accessory device 600. The one or more sensors 630can also include magnetic field sensors, such as Hall Effect sensors.The one or more sensors 630 is/are connected to the one or moreprocessors 610 via one or more connection cables 632.

According to some embodiments, the accessory device 600 can include oneor more input/output components 640 (also referred to as “I/Ocomponents”) that enable communication between a user and the accessorydevice 600. In some cases, the one or more input/output components 640can refer to a button or a switch that is capable of actuation by theuser. In some examples, the one or more input/output components 640 canrefer to a switch having a mechanical actuator (e.g., spring-basedswitch, slide-switch, rocker switch, rotating dial, etc.) or othermoving parts that enable the switch to be actuated by the user. The oneor more input/output components 640 can include an accelerometer thatdetermines whether the accessory device 600, and to what extent, isaccelerating or decelerating. When the one or more input/outputcomponents 640 are used, the one or more input/output components 640 cangenerate an electrical signal that is provided to the one or moreprocessors 610 via one or more connection cables 642.

According to some embodiments, the accessory device 600 can include apower supply 650 that is capable of providing energy to the operationalcomponents of the accessory device 600. In some examples, the powersupply 650 can refer to a rechargeable battery. The power supply 650 canbe connected to the one or more processors 610 via one or moreconnection cables 652. The power supply 650 can be directly connected toother devices of the accessory device 600, such as the one or moreinput/output components 640. In some examples, the accessory device 600can receive power from another power sources (e.g., an external chargingdevice) not shown in FIG. 21.

According to some embodiments, the accessory device 600 can includememory 660, which can include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g.,hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages oneor more partitions within the memory 660. In some cases, the memory 660can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or thelike. The memory 660 can also include a Random Access Memory (“RAM”) anda Read-Only Memory (“ROM”). The ROM can store programs, utilities orprocesses to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM can providevolatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operationof the accessory device 600. In some embodiments, the memory 660 refersto a non-transitory computer readable medium, where an operating system(“OS”) is established at the memory 660 that can be configured toexecute software applications. The one or more processors 610 can alsobe used to execute software applications. In some embodiments, a databus 662 can facilitate data transfer between the memory 660 and the oneor more processors 610.

According to some embodiments, the accessory device 600 can include awireless communications component 670. A network/bus interface 672 cancouple the wireless communications component 670 to the one or moreprocessors 610. The wireless communications component 670 cancommunicate with other electronic devices via any number of wirelesscommunication protocols, including at least one of a global network(e.g., the Internet), a wide area network, a local area network, awireless personal area network (WPAN), or the like. In some examples,the wireless communications component 670 can transmit data to the otherelectronic devices over IEEE 802.11 (e.g., a Wi-Fi® networking system),Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), ZigBee, Wireless USB, Near-FieldCommunication (NFC), a cellular network system (e.g., a 3G/4G/5G networksuch as UMTS, LTE, etc.), or the like.

The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of thedescribed embodiments can be used separately or in any combination.Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented bysoftware, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. Thedescribed embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code ona computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations oras computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controllinga manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storagedevice that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computersystem. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-onlymemory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, andoptical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also bedistributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computerreadable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the describedembodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe specific details are not required in order to practice the describedembodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specificembodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustrationand description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit theembodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations arepossible in view of the above teachings.

What is claimed is:
 1. An accessory device for use with an electronicdevice, the accessory device comprising: a cover section that defines areceiving surface for the electronic device, the cover sectioncomprising: electrical contacts located on the receiving surface, theelectrical contacts configured to electrically couple to the electronicdevice, a first segment having a first size, a second segment rotatablycoupled to the first segment, the second segment having a second sizeless than the first size; a cover magnet located in the cover section,the cover magnet capable of magnetically coupling with a device magnetin the electronic device; and a keyboard section rotatably coupled tothe cover section, the keyboard section comprising a keyboard and achannel, the channel capable of receiving the electronic device when theelectronic device is coupled to the cover section.
 2. The accessorydevice of claim 1, further comprising a panel located in the firstsegment, the panel comprising: a first layer; a second layer; and athird layer, wherein the second layer comprises a foam layer positionedbetween the first layer and the third layer, the foam layer carrying thecover magnet.
 3. The accessory device of claim 2, further comprising areinforcement layer coupled with the foam layer, the reinforcement layerdefining a through hole capable of receiving a camera assembly of theelectronic device.
 4. The accessory device of claim 1, furthercomprising: a first microfiber layer located on the first segment; and asecond microfiber layer located on the second segment, the secondmicrofiber layer separated from the first microfiber layer by hinge thatallows the second segment to rotate with respect to the first segment.5. The accessory device of claim 1, further comprising: a shell locatedin the keyboard section, the shell further comprising key openings inlocations corresponding to keys of the keyboard, the shell at leastpartially defining the channel and a comprising channel opening at thechannel; and a channel magnet located in the keyboard section, thechannel magnet at least partially positioned in the channel opening. 6.The accessory device of claim 5, further comprising: a first layer thatcovers the channel; and a second layer covered by the first layer, thesecond layer covering the channel magnet and the channel opening.
 7. Theaccessory device of claim 1, wherein the keyboard section includes: afirst dimension measured from a rear surface of the keyboard section toa key of the keyboard, a second dimension measured from the rear surfaceof the keyboard section to a section that surrounds the channel, and thefirst dimension is equal to the second dimension.
 8. An accessory devicefor use with an electronic device, the accessory device comprising: acover section that defines a receiving surface for the electronicdevice; a keyboard section rotatably coupled to the cover section, thekeyboard section comprising: a keyboard, a shell defining a channelcapable of receiving the electronic device, the channel comprising: keyopenings in locations corresponding to keys of the keyboard, a firstdiagonal wall having a first channel opening, and a second diagonal wallhaving a second channel opening, a first magnet located along the firstdiagonal wall, and a second magnet located along the second diagonalwall, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet magnetically couplewith a device magnet of the electronic device when the electronic deviceis positioned in the channel; a first layer that covers the keyboardsection and the shell; and a second layer that covers the shell.
 9. Theaccessory device of claim 8, wherein the first magnet comprises a firstexternal magnetic field and wherein the second magnet comprises a secondexternal magnetic field that is less than the first external magneticfield.
 10. The accessory device of claim 9, wherein the first externalmagnetic field and the second external magnetic field are capable ofoffsetting a force applied to the electronic device that otherwisecauses the electronic device to rotate away from the keyboard sectionand out of the channel.
 11. The accessory device of claim 8, furthercomprising: a first opening formed in the shell, wherein the firstmagnet is located in the first opening; a second opening formed in theshell, wherein the first magnet is located in the first opening; and athird layer surrounding the shell.
 12. The accessory device of claim 8,wherein the cover section comprises a first segment and a second segmentseparate from the first segment.
 13. The accessory device of claim 12,further comprising a panel located in the first segment, the panelcomprising: a first layer; a second layer; and a third layer, whereinthe second layer comprises a foam layer positioned between the firstlayer and the third layer, the foam layer carrying a cover magnetcapable of magnetically coupling with a second device magnet of theelectronic device.
 14. The accessory device of claim 8, furthercomprising: electrical contacts located on the receiving surface; and anelectrically conductive fabric electrically coupled to the electricalcontacts and extending into the keyboard section.
 15. An accessorydevice for use with an electronic device, the accessory devicecomprising: a keyboard section comprising a keyboard and a channel, thechannel capable of receiving the electronic device; a cover sectionrotatably coupled to the keyboard section, the cover section comprising:a receiving surface for the electronic device, electrical contactslocated on the receiving surface, a flexible circuit that is coupled tothe electrical contacts; and a panel embedded in the cover section, thepanel comprising: a first layer, a second layer comprising a foam layer,a third layer, wherein the second layer is positioned between the firstlayer and the third layer, an magnet embedded in the foam layer, themagnet capable of magnetically coupling with a device magnet of theelectronic device when the electronic device is positioned on thereceiving surface, and a recess, wherein the flexible circuit ispositioned in the recess.
 16. The accessory device of claim 15, whereinthe foam layer defines the recess, and wherein the second layercomprises an opening aligned with the recess.
 17. The accessory deviceof claim 15, wherein the keyboard section comprises: a circuit board;and internal blocks that surround the circuit board.
 18. The accessorydevice of claim 15, wherein the cover section comprises a segment thatcarries the electrical contacts, wherein: the electrical contacts extendbeyond the segment when the electronic device is not positioned on thesegment, and the segment compresses when the electronic device ispositioned on the segment such that the electrical contacts are planarwith respect to the segment or sub-flush with respect to the segment.19. The accessory device of claim 15, wherein the cover sectioncomprises: a first segment having a first size; and a second segmentrotatably coupled to the first segment, the second segment having asecond size less than the first size.
 20. The accessory device of claim19, wherein the electrical contacts are located on the first segment.